Friday, October 31, 2008

A moment ago I read the blog entry of a father who recently lost his almost 2 year old daughter due to heart problems. In his blog, he shared the following:

"Today I was cleaning out the diaper pail to use when Julie, Garrett, Emma and Ethan come on Sat. I had set it outside and forgot that there were a few diapers in there. So needless to say it was very smelly and full of rain water. As I was dumping out the water I realized that those were the last 3 diapers I changed at home. That sure made me sad and long more for Lindsay. You forget what it's like to change diapers everyday but I sure miss doing it everyday."1

I instantly related to his words. There have been a few opportunites in my life to experience seasons of suffering. During each period, waiting, watching, praying and hoping were the constant norm.

Like Jonathan, hours, days and weeks were spent watching a loved one being cared for by others and what was most longed for was to just scoop that loved one up and go home to normal everyday life, life without needles and tubes and the constant hum of machines.

I remember well the feeling of satisfaction that came from returning to the simple and the mundane chores of life. I thoroughly relished the little things that I felt blessed and privileged to be doing for my family, and most especially for the one who had been so gravely ill. It was, oh, so much better than sitting idly beside a hospital bed feeling insecure, useless and helpless.

There are so many, many things that we can, and do, so casually complain about in the course of a day, when in fact we do have so much for which to be thankful. Father God is "up close and personal" in the details, all the little things in our life...at least He wants to be. Let's thank Him today for all of it! The never-ending laundry, the dishes, the runny noses, the lunches that have to be made, etc...

In fact, why don't we slow down a bit and simply enjoy those little things, those simple little pleasures in our lives that too often we miss when they are gone. Give your love, your time, your attention and, of course, your hugs to the ones you say you love. Why? Why not? God is there for us all the time. He listens to us and He gives us what we need when we need it in ways too numerous to count. Read Psalm 139.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

I love to encourage others to dig deep into the Word of God. The Word is so rich and full. I am always blessed by the nuggets of gold I find in the depths of the scriptures. "Dig deeper" has become a motto of mine. I thought I made that up but I found my motto in Luke 6:47-48. "Whoever comes to me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock." (NKJV)

Digging deep is more than just studying the Word. You and I need to come to Jesus to be taught, we need to hear what He says and we need to obey. Digging deep into studying the Word may expand our knowledge but digging deeper includes putting hands and feet to what we learn. Digging deeper includes a transformation of heart, life and ways because we studied and heard the Word and have come to know and love the Author. We don't want to be strong in the area of study but then weak in obedience. We don't want to be obedient outwardly while our hearts are unchanged. As you and I dig deeper into the scriptures don't forget to go deeper still in obedient living and in giving Jesus our all. When the storms come we want to find ourselves dug deep into the One who is the rock of our refuge. Come to Jesus, hear, obey and dig deeper still.

Kathy Withers works at the Keswick Book and Gift Shop. She is married to her husband, Dave, and has two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church. Her passion is the Word of God and encouraging women to dig deeper into the truths of the Bible.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

If you're a VC "groupie" you know a little bit about each of us. Part of my past includes a divorce and one, now teenage, son. It's been eight years. Actually it's been one day less than I've been saved. But that's another Victory Call. Between then and now there's been ...well...life.

Yes, life, with its ups and downs. Along the way I've had the blessing of coming alongside a number of women who "happen" to be struggling in their marriages. Most of them are really seeking help. But it's not always in the area I thought it might be. For instance, they could ask; "What should they do to avoid a potential divorce?" "What, in hindsight, would I have done differently to help my marriage?" "Was it difficult going through the process of a divorce?"

Most of the time those are not the questions. First, what they see visually is someone who seems to be, at least on the outside, doing well after divorce. They ask how my child is doing and how his father and I work out visitation, holidays etc... They ask where I live and how I like my work. But mostly what they see is someone who seems to be quite happy. Perhaps even "happily divorced," as opposed to "unhappily married." They see potential. "She can do this, maybe so can I. She's alright and my kids and I can be alright too." They believe they see hope. What I often find they're seeking is "the escape hatch." A way out.

What some have seen in me is actually the grace, strength, forgiveness and mercy of God even though there has been a divorce. I don't know your specific circumstances; I can only share what I have experienced. I make no assumptions that others have had the same experience, but perhaps some can relate. The great news is, whatever your situation, no matter how desperate, the power of Jesus Christ Himself is available to you. My dear sister, I have no magic wand to make things better, for that type of thing is pure fantasy. What I do have is a real, living, all powerful God who has amazed me with His provision, faithfulness, counsel and most of all His love, even on this very day!

Regardless of the actions of another, you must stand firm in Christ, so grounded in Him that whether your spouse stands or falls, you may stand! Set your face like a flint knowing that though your strength may fail you, it is a supernatural power you are leaning on not your own. This is a place to start.

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

Dina Seaton serves on staff in marketing and also as a staff writer and speaker. She is the mother of one son, John, who is 13 years old. Dina is currently working on completing her first book, "Do It Again LORD...Do It Again!" A collection of interviews that will excite your faith... email the author at dseaton@americaskeswick.org

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

We recently traveled across the Amish country, Gettysburg, and Washington, D.C. We paused to see the Viet Nam Wall Memorial, the FDR memorial, the Capitol and the buildings that house the Supreme Court. My mind is on history and civil responsibility. On the news we constantly hear of court decisions that do not seem proper and judgments that appear to us to be unfair.

Psalm 82 (TLB) states: "God presides over heaven's court; he pronounces judgment on the judges: 'How long will you judges hand down unjust decisions? How long will you shower special favors on the wicked? Give fair judgment to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.'" Those verses certainly seem to hit our judicial system of today, don't they?

But then the focus of the Psalmist seems to change. Verse 4 states: "Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people." In Jeremiah 22:3, God, speaking to His people, says: "Be fair-minded and just. Do what is right! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. Quit your evil deeds! Do not mistreat foreigners, orphans, and widows." These commands are things WE can do. We have opportunity to rescue the poor and helpless and be fair-minded and just everyday, right here in our land. And we as Christians have the opportunity to support our service men and women who are doing these things in foreign countries.

Have you asked God to give you opportunities to rescue the poor and helpless and to be fair-minded and just? Have you prayed for our servicemen and our leaders today?With the elections coming up this fall, I have become even more aware of my responsibility to be faithful in praying for the candidates and the outcomes of the elections rather than just adopting a fatalistic attitude. I have signed up to receive daily mailings from the Presidential Prayer Team that will remind me to pray and even give me a prescribed prayer for each day.

Whether you do as I have done or not, it is our responsibility to storm heaven and pray for our land. "I urge that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for kings and all those in authority..." (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Marilyn Heavilin is author, speaker, and counselor-in-residence from March to October at America's KESWICK

Questions and Concerns about the economy? Check out this weeks "STEWARDSHIP INSIGHT FROM GEORGE" -- http://keswickgeorge.blogspot.com/

Monday, October 27, 2008

"Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church." Acts 12:5

When Peter faced this imprisonment, his brothers and sisters in Christ came together in fervent prayer.

When Peter realized he had been freed by an angel of the Lord he headed straight to the house where they were gathered for a prayer vigil on his behalf.

"And when Peter had come to himself, he said, 'Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.' So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying." Acts 12:11-12

A girl Rhoda answered the door but upon hearing Peter's voice was so overjoyed she ran to tell the others. In her child-like faith, it appears she believed their prayers were answered but in her youthful exuberance forgot to open the door.

"And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a girl named Rhoda came to answer. When she recognized Peter's voice, because of her gladness she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter stood before the gate." Acts 12:13-14

The same could NOT be said of her adult companions. They were there gathered to pray for Peter, but when Peter presented himself at the gate, what was their response? Unbelief. Perhaps God did not answer their prayers as they anticipated. Regardless, they chided the girl.

"But they said to her, "You are beside yourself!" Yet she kept insisting that it was so. So they said, "It is his angel."" Acts 12:15

How often do we pray and then completely miss God's answer because it doesn't come in the form we anticipated or desired? Would that not be a response of unbelief? When we pray, let us pray in faith, believing, looking intently for the answer in whatever form God chooses to send it.

Friday, October 24, 2008

"Despairingly the poor disappointed father turned away from the disciples to their Master. His son was in the worst possible condition, and all means failed, but the miserable child was soon delivered from the evil one when the parent in faith obeyed the Lord Jesus' word,"Bring him to me."

Children are a precious gift from God, but much anxiety comes along with them. They may be a great joy or a great bitterness to their parents; they may be filled with the Spirit of God or possessed with the spirit of evil. In all cases, the Word of God gives us one prescription for the cure of all their ills: "Bring them to me." We need to engage in agonizing prayer on their behalf while they are still babies! Sin is there; so let our prayers begin to attack it. Our cries for our offspring should precede those cries that herald their arrival into a world of sin. In the days of their youth we will see sad evidences of that dumb and deaf spirit that will neither pray properly, nor hear the voice of God in the soul, but Jesus still commands, "Bring him to me." When they are grown up, they may wallow in sin and foam with enmity against God; then when our hearts are breaking we should remember the Great Physician's words, "Bring him to me." We must never cease to pray until they cease to breathe. No case is hopeless while Jesus lives.

The Lord sometimes allows His people to be driven into a corner that they may learn how necessary He is to them. Ungodly children, when they show us our own powerlessness against the depravity of their hearts, drive us to the strong for strength, and this is great blessing to us. Whatever our morning's need may be, may it like a strong current carry us to the ocean of divine love. Jesus can soon remove our sorrow; He delights to comfort us. Let us hurry to Him while He waits to meet us." Morning By Morning by Charles Spurgeon

Your case today may not be a prodigal child. What is it? Your job? Your finances? Your spouse? Fill in the blank but remember- NO case is hopeless while Jesus lives! Amen!

Kathy Withers has served at the Keswick Book and Gift Shop. She is married to her husband, Dave, and has two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church. Her passion is the Word of God and encouraging women to dig deeper into the truths of the Bible.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

One of the benefits of reading through the Bible each year is that I have exposed myself to the truth. I wish I could say I have memorized much scripture, but that is not true. I am terrible at memorization. However, I have become familiar enough with the truth that I know when what I am hearing is not scriptural truth.

I am told the way bank tellers are taught to recognize counterfeit money is by becoming very familiar with the real thing. We need to do the same. We need to become so familiar with God's Word that our spiritual antennae goes up when we are confronted with the counterfeit.

In Job 34:3, we read "For the ear tests words as the tongue tastes food." When we are offered strange food, we touch the food to our tongue and check it out before we take a whole mouthful and swallow it. We should do the same with words; our ear needs to check out the words. Are they true? How do they measure up with God's word, the truth we already know? If they check out, we can allow the words to enter our minds as truth.

This week, let's monitor the words and thoughts we allow our ears to accept.

Marilyn Heavilin is an author, speaker, and friend of America's KESWICK

One of the benefits of reading through the Bible each year is that I have exposed myself to the truth. I wish I could say I have memorized much scripture, but that is not true. I am terrible at memorization. However, I have become familiar enough with the truth that I know when what I am hearing is not scriptural truth.

I am told the way bank tellers are taught to recognize counterfeit money is by becoming very familiar with the real thing. We need to do the same. We need to become so familiar with God's Word that our spiritual antennae goes up when we are confronted with the counterfeit.

In Job 34:3, we read "For the ear tests words as the tongue tastes food." When we are offered strange food, we touch the food to our tongue and check it out before we take a whole mouthful and swallow it. We should do the same with words; our ear needs to check out the words. Are they true? How do they measure up with God's word, the truth we already know? If they check out, we can allow the words to enter our minds as truth.

This week, let's monitor the words and thoughts we allow our ears to accept.

Marilyn Heavilin is an author, speaker, counselor and friend of America's KESWICK

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

What have you learned now that you are older and wiser that you were clueless about as a young adult? Remember being young and having the audacity to think you had it all together and you were doing everything right...blah, blah, blah...

I remember only too well how prideful I was and how self-righteously I behaved. I cringe as I recall all the ways I thought I had it together, especially at the expense of a brother or sister in Christ and/or my own family. I honestly did not know then that I was being that way. I thought I was behaving like a good Christian was supposed to. After all, I had Jesus, the answer to all of life's problems and adverse situations.

It's only as I have grown up and matured that I have come to realize that I know "nuthin' 'bout nuthin'." Oh my goodness!!! The stuff I would do and say different is plentiful to say the least.

One of the most liberating things that I know now, that I didn't know then, is that sanctification is a process, NOT AN EVENT!

Another thing is we are all just simple people. Just people and we're all in this together. None of us - especially me - has arrived at such a place of perfection or "having it all together" that it is ever appropriate to be critical and judgmental of another, to disparage another.

Praise God for the wisdom, knowledge and understanding that can, and will, often come with age...if we are seeking Him, His will, His guidance and His direction for our lives.

Let's purpose today to be guided by the mind and heart of God and determine to lay aside "stinkin' thinkin'" and the foolish deeds of our flesh AND let's begin at the foot of the Cross.

Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. ~~2 Corinthians 3:17-181

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Arise, O LORD, let not man triumph; let the nations be judged in your presence. Strike them with terror, O LORD; let the nations know they are but men. Psalm 9:19-20 (NIV)

As we approach the elections, which I would guess we all want to be done with already, this verse offers the reminder to pray for the humility of our leaders.

When leaders of nations think too highly of themselves, they will surely push God out of their picture. He's not really gone, they just function as if He is. Woe to such a nation.

King Nebuchadnezzar is a good illustration: Then a herald cried aloud: "To you it is commanded, O peoples, nations, and languages, that at the time you hear the sound of the horn, flute, harp, lyre, and psaltery, in symphony with all kinds of music, you shall fall down and worship the gold image that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up; and whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast immediately into the midst of a burning fiery furnace." Daniel 3:4-6

Fast forward to Chapter 4 when Daniel interprets King Nebuchadnezzar's dream: "this is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the Most High, which has come upon my lord the king: They shall drive you from men, your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make you eat grass like oxen. They shall wet you with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over you, till you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses." Daniel 4:24-25..Till you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men...."That very hour the word was fulfilled concerning Nebuchadnezzar; he was driven from men and ate grass like oxen; his body was wet with the dew of heaven till his hair had grown like eagles' feathers and his nails like birds' claws. And at the end of the time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who lives forever: For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, And His kingdom is from generation to generation." Daniel 4:33-34

And I lifted up my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and I bless the Most High....

Pray for our leaders. Pray that those in authority in our country and others will know there is a God in heaven Who rules and reigns on the earth and that they are but men.

Monday, October 20, 2008

The following devotional was written by my son who is in the 8th grade and preparing for his school's retreat right here at KESWICK. He has given me permission to share it. I was blessed, encouraged and most of all thankful! Take heart, you moms out there; the Lord truly does control everything, including the salvation and spiritual growth of the children He's given us.

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." 3 John 1:4

When Mrs. Huber (my Bible teacher) said we had to do devotions I was dreading it, but within five minutes of finding out, the Lord put into my heart a devotion that came to me when I saw a poster up on the wall that says: "The Lord Controls Everything." The Lord definitely controls everything, but He also gave us the freedom of choice. Psalm 37:5 says "Commit your way to the Lord." Now, what does that mean? It doesn't mean that you just say the prayer to become a believer and whenever asked say, "Yes, I believe in Jesus, I go to church and I read my Bible" and then go on with your life like nothing happened. I once saw something that said "Going to church makes you a Christian just as much as standing in a garage makes you a car." Ask yourself this, would you rather use your choice to live your life the way you want, have fun on earth, do whatever you want and then realize when you die that you'll be in hell or would you rather live your life for the Lord well on earth and commit your way to the Lord and go to Heaven and have more fun and happiness then even imaginable on earth? While you're on the Keswick retreat think about whether or not you are really a Christian. Next time you pick up your Bible read Psalm 37.Let's pray: Lord I just ask that you would lay it on everyone's heart to ask themselves, am I living for You or for me. As we go on the Keswick retreat tomorrow, Lord, keep us safe and help everyone in the middle school grow spiritually in you, Lord. In your Holy name I pray, amen. by John SeatonSeptember 6, 2008

Dina Seaton serves on staff in marketing and also as a staff writer and speaker. She is the mother of one son, John, who is 13 years old. Dina is currently working on completing her first book, "Do It Again, LORD...Do It Again!" A collection of interviews that will excite your faith... email the author at dseaton@americaskeswick.org

Friday, October 17, 2008

Are you honest with God about your struggles, about the feelings and thoughts you have in the midst of those struggles? Do you express joy and gladness for Who God is in the midst of your trials AND in the midst of your blessings?

Do you have an Esther attitude, a NO MATTER WHAT heart toward God as it relates to all of life? Is there anything in your soul, in your spirit, that you can possible hide from God? Is there any thought or feeling which you could have that would surprise or shock God?

One of the most calming things in my heart and life is the knowledge that God's Word gives me related to how I can and am permitted to communicate with Him. In a word: honestly.

Reading the Old Testament has given me numerous glimpses of God: Father God, Abba interacting with His people, His sometimes silly, often confused, wayward, disobedient, evil children.

Over and over we see Him responding to their honest cries, pleas, demands, whining, complaining as a Father to His children. He answers them right where they are and then, in grace, truth and love, He does what is best for them...even if it's painful and hard.

Job is an excellent example of this relationship with FATHER GOD. Just read chapter 10. In verse one, Job freely complains and tells God he is disgusted with his life. He speaks in the bitterness of His soul to the God he worshipped, reverenced and adored. And guess what - God heard him! Wow!! And just think, the same ear that was tuned into Job is tuned to you and me.

Also consider reading Psalm 13. In this Psalm David is honestly communicating with God, earnestly seeking God to hear and see him.Dear sister, if your soul and/or spirit is troubled today, go to God with it. Pour your heart out to Him, sit still and listen to what He will faithfully speak to your spirit.

"This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin." ~~1 John 1:5-71

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Do you consider yourself to be a hospitable person? Webster states hospitable means: "offering a pleasant or sustaining environment." How do we do that? When we answer the phone, we can offer the caller a pleasant or sustaining environment. When I call my friend Lauren, I expect to hear her cheery voice say, "Greetings!" Now that is a welcome sound. My husband recently made a call to another time zone and woke someone up. A very sleepy "h-e-l-l-o," did not convey the promise of a pleasant or sustaining environment.

Recently Glen and I were walking through an Amish quilt shop. The store clerk heard me talking about my own quilting in comparison to the beautiful work I was looking at. The clerk started a very generic conversation with me about quilting. I told her about the quilts I have seen made by those who have lost a child; quilts with picture quilt blocks. Unknowingly I had created a promise of a pleasant or sustaining environment where the clerk could ask, "Have you lost a child?" I answered, "Yes, three sons." As I heard her gasp and utter an "Oh, I'm so sorry," I felt free to ask, "Have you lost a child?" She answered, "Yes, two."

Here we were. Two women living totally opposite lifestyles, yet we could hug each other as we parted. I left her with a copy of "Roses In December" and my business card. She gave me her address as she told me about the Circle Letter (chain letter) she had started several years ago. The letter travels within a circle of twelve bereaved mothers. Along with instant acceptance, we had offered a pleasant or sustaining environment to each other.

"Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" (Hebrews 13:2 TLB)

Marilyn Heavilin is a speaker, author and grief counselor. She and her husband, Glen, volunteer at America's KESWICK each year, and will be returning in March 2009

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Kathy Withers and I were talking this week and our conversation turned to the "little" words we find in the Bible - "yet," "but," and my favorites, "if...then." My pastor has preached many times that, just because these words are little, doesn't mean we should skip over them. They are flashing lights that should make us stop and pay special attention not only to what comes next, but what was said immediately before.

For example, take a look at Habakkuk 3:17-18. The prophet says that even when all of the things we expect to happen in the natural course of life do not ..."YET will I rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation." (vs. 18) Even when everything around us seems to fail, YET we should rejoice in the God who knows all of those things already and has made a plan for us.

Or look at Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, BUT the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." My sin has already earned me death, BUT God's great gift of His Son has provided me with eternal and abundant life.

II Chronicles 7:14 is another familiar passage where we are told that "IF my people which are called by my name. shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, THEN will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (emphasis mine) The forgiveness and healing only comes IF we do what we need to do to get ourselves right before the Lord. And only THEN will He do as He has promised.

So the next time you are reading in your Bible, take a reminder from the song phrase, "little things mean a lot." Don't be tempted to rush past the little words. Stop for a moment and remember that those little words lead to something much grander in God's scheme for our lives.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

So, you'd think after a busy summer things would quiet down here at KESWICK. Perhaps the staff will settle in for a long winter's nap? No chance of that!

September 11th, 2006 I was awakened in the middle of the night. It was the Welte family; "Time to go" was what I heard on the other end. I had offered to watch two of their grandchildren, Tanner and Lindsay, while the family went to the hospital to await the birth of Emma Grace Houston. Tanner was tucked in tight but Lindsay was up for a late night feeding. "Now Lindsay has never been bottle fed before; I'm hoping she will take it from the bottle for you, but if there's any trouble, I'll come right back." Whew... That was a relief!

Off to the hospital they went and there I was left with one toddler (asleep), one new born (asleep), three resident dogs, one guest dog, two large, noisy parrots and a coop full of chickens. And no, this is not a farm, it's the Welte home: aka Faith Cottage.

Little Emma decided she'd take her time to make an entrance into the world. A few hours had gone by and it was time for Lindsay to get her first bottle. I sat down on the sofa and spoke softly to her about how much she was going to like this bottle. I remember thinking how sweet she smelled and how soft her skin felt. Her hair barely there but a true platinum blond was blossoming. Lindsay quickly opened her mouth and drank down the whole thing...no fuss-no muss! Well, it was back to bed for Lindsay. Yippee, we did it! Mom can relax and wait for her niece to be born.

I had a wonderful morning with those two precious ones. Emma finally made her entrance around 9:00 that morning and by early afternoon my watch was over. Granny and Mommy returned home thrilled, exhausted and grateful that the little ones had done so well.

Little did I know just how precious that memory would be. Lindsay Alice Groen went home to be with Jesus on May 16, 2008. Her ministry and testimony of her family are responsible for many entries in the Lamb's Book of Life.

"And they shall bring the glory and the honor of the nations into it.But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb's Book of Life." (Revelation 21:26-27) NKJV

If you would like to know more about her visit the blog at: lindsaykeswick.blogspot.com

Monday, October 13, 2008

One of the projects I got to help my Sunday School kids work on was a dot-to-dot puzzle. I loved doing these as a child! The point of the puzzle is to draw a line from dot A to dot Z and at the end, an outline of an object is formed.

This summer I was able to listen to one of our Summer Conference speakers, Dr. Roger Willmore. He had shared a point that reminded me of a dot-to-dot puzzle. He had asked (and I paraphrase) have you ever seen someone who lived in victory? Have you ever envied them or wished your walk with Christ could have such depth? He went on to say that the only way we could have the victory they have is to have gone through whatever they went through to gain that victory.

In God's wisdom He has a perfect plan for you. I don't know where you are on your dot-to-dot puzzle but, like me, I am sure you are tempted to go around a few dots. We think we would be just fine if we could just jump from A-Z, but shortcuts don't work. I know because my dot-to-dot has so many eraser marks on it! I have had to go back to a dot I thought I could skip. Sometimes I have had to go back to dot A because I made such a mess! Not until I have done what needed to be done and gone through what I needed to go through could I move on to the next dot. Not until I have had small victories could I see bigger victories in my life. Not until I saw victories in one area could I trust and wait for the victory in another.

The next dot you reach may be another hard trial, or it may be the very victory for which you are longing. Each of our "dot-to-dots" is different but each one offers to bring us to victory as we follow His plan for us. As we go from A to Z we will see that Jesus has brought us from trial to victory and victory to trial and, in doing so our outline forms the image of Christ.

"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit." 2 Cor.3:18 NASB

Kathy Withers serves at the Keswick Book and Gift Shop. She is married to her husband, Dave, and has two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church. Her passion is the Word of God and encouraging women to dig deeper into the truths of the Bible.

Friday, October 10, 2008

In recent weeks, I have been reminded once again that there are many hurting people. Being in a counseling ministry and often working with those in hurting relationships, I interact regularly with people dealing with much pain in their lives. If it were not for the truth of God, the grace of God and the love of God, it could easily overwhelm me. In 17 years of counseling, I have not yet met a helpless case, a person that could not be changed or healed by the hand of God. One of my goals for every person I meet with is to express to them the hope they have in Jesus Christ. I refuse to believe anyone is without hope, whether they see it or feel it or not, because with Jesus Christ there is always hope. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

The Keswick's Family and Friends Seminar tomorrow is one avenue to minister hope and healing to hurting people. Most of the sessions are applicable to every Christian, not just those with an addicted family or friend. Perhaps you or someone you know would benefit from joining us. Call today for reservations: 1-732-350-1187 ex. 10.

Thursday, October 09, 2008

Not all help is helpful. In working with families impacted by addiction for several years, there are a multitude of illustrations of hurting family members desperate to do the right thing to help a loved one overcome their addiction only to find out that instead they are not only NOT helping they are actually hurting the recovery of that loved one.

For example, here are some things that are not helpful: 1. Rescuing the person from the consequences of their choices over and over again2. Treating a person as if she knows she needs help when she doesn't 3. Any action that allows their poor choices to continue4. Continually moving the acceptable limits of behavior just one more time5. Failing to be true to your word

Here are some things that are helpful:1. Mean what you say and follow through with what you said2. Remember the person is not only hurting you but they are also hurting themself3. Love without strings attached; if there are strings attached that is manipulation4. Pray rather than nag5. Encourage the person to take responsibility for their actions by not assuming responsibility for their actions.

6. UPCOMING EVENTStephanie is one of the featured speakers at our 3rd Annual Family and Friends Addiction Seminar: Binding Up the Broken-Hearted. To learn more about empowering rather than enabling please join us for a day designed to provide practical help for individuals in relationship with an addicted person. It is our desire to give hope to the hopeless and to encourage the discouraged. Saturday, October 11th, 2008. 8:00 am-3:30 pm Sponsored by America's Keswick - Addiction Recovery Ministries. It will be held at an off-campus location: Whiting Bible Church, 95 Lacey Rd., Whiting, NJ 08759. $25.00 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. Call today for reservations and directions 732.350.1187 x. 10.

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Jesus truly does understand what it's like to experience shattered dreams and what it is like to go through deep grief. Jesus was familiar with the death of dreams and grieved deeply.

In Luke 13:43, Jesus looks over Jerusalem and is in very deep pain and grief over His chosen people who have rejected Him and the salvation He offered, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!" Jesus understands and feels your sorrow over dreams that have been broken because Jesus has walked that journey ahead of you.But Jesus faced His deepest sorrow, pain, loss and grief in the Garden of Gethsemane. It was there that Jesus clung to His heavenly Father. He had to trust the Father because it was the only way he could face the agony of the cross.

We, too, will have a Gethsemane experience. Have you felt as if your life has ended because your dream is shattered? Have you felt as if you just couldn't go on? Have you experienced grief so deep and so painful that it even hurt to breathe, walk or even eat? This is a Gethsemane experience. Jesus said in Matthew 26:38 "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death." Have you begged God to change things - to turn back the hands of time - to remove your suffering?

Jesus understands your pain. Jesus accepted the pain that was ahead of Him but not until He went through terrible agony in the garden. Even when you cry out to God...begging...there will come a time when you realize that you, too, have to drink from your cup of suffering, pain and loss.

Yes, Jesus has walked that road ahead of you, but He is also there beside you in your grief. Jesus never leaves us alone. All you have to do is call on Him. Put your hope and trust in Him as you go through the grief process. He will give you more strength and courage to face life minute by minute. Even though we suffer in the loss of shattered dreams God is still good....His promises never fail.

Cling to Jesus.

Mary Ann Kiernan is Intake Manager at the Colony of Mercy

UPCOMING EVENTMary Ann is one of the featured speakers at our 3rd Annual Family and Friends Addiction Seminar: Binding Up the Broken-Hearted. To learn more about grief please join us for a day designed to provide practical help for individuals in relationship with an addicted person. It is our desire to give hope to the hopeless and to encourage the discouraged. Saturday, October 11th, 2008. 8:00 am-3:30 pm Sponsored by America's Keswick - Addiction Recovery Ministries. It will be held at an off-campus location: Whiting Bible Church, 95 Lacey Rd., Whiting, NJ 08759. $25.00 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. Call today for reservations and directions 732.350.1187 x. 10.

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

No one is exempt from pain, suffering and loss. In John 16:33 Jesus tells us, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."

Sorrow and grief are a part of life. In Marilyn Willit Heavilin's book "When your Dreams Die" she defines grief as "...the process of facing the death of a dream." This is the best definition of grief I have found, because the death of a dream encompasses so many different kinds of losses.

What is the death of a dream? Well, of course, at the top of the list is the physical death of a loved one. This is the deepest of all grief but we grieve over many other "deaths" as well. In life we have expectations of how our lives and futures are supposed to be. We have expectations for our marriages, our families, our jobs and careers. There are deaths of the loss of health, the loss of an innocent childhood, the loss of dreams for children, the loss of finances, the loss of freedom. Today so many in Galveston, Texas are grieving the loss of all their possessions. The death of a dream comes in many forms.

We all grieve because a dream has died. Whether the dream has been shattered through a physical death or the death of a dream...in any loss, it is okay to grieve and you must grieve if healing is to take place in time. Most importantly you need to know that our God knows of your deep pain and feels your pain. But He doesn't stop there. God offers, hope, healing, strength and comfort.

Psalm 56:8 (NLT) You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.

Psalm 3434:18 (NLT) The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

Our God knows your pain; He has a special place in His heart for those who grieve, those in deep sorrow....who have shattered dreams...those who feel defeated. Trust God, put your confidence in Him, this is where the journey of healing begins.

Psalm 147:3 (NIV) He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Mary Ann Kiernan is our Intake Manager at the Colony of Mercy

UPCOMING EVENTMary Ann is one of the featured speakers at our 3rd Annual Family and Friends Addiction Seminar: Binding Up the Broken-Hearted. To learn more about grief please join us for a day designed to provide practical help for individuals in relationship with an addicted person. It is our desire to give hope to the hopeless and to encourage the discouraged. Saturday, October 11th, 2008. 8:00 am-3:30 pm Sponsored by America's Keswick - Addiction Recovery Ministries. It will be held at an off-campus location: Whiting Bible Church, 95 Lacey Rd., Whiting, NJ 08759. $25.00 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. Call today for reservations and directions 732.350.1187 x. 10.

Monday, October 06, 2008

As we approach our Family and Friends: Binding up the Broken Hearted seminar this Saturday, we would like to give you just a taste of what lies ahead and to encourage you to consider joining us for a day of encouragement and renewal. It will be time well invested. You don't need to be in relationship with an addicted person to benefit from this weekend's seminar. If you are a parent, spouse, friend, leader, teacher, co-worker in which there are times of conflict or disagreement you will be blessed by attending this seminar.

Yes, it is geared towards family and friends of the addicted but I believe that the main sessions on enabling (especially for parents), forgiveness and looking at our own hearts apply to every one of us. The workshops on weapons of warfare, grief, enabling and sexual sin in some way touch each of our lives. I have been at America's Keswick for 9 years and one of the pronounced struggles family members have when a loved one strays is the feeling of helplessness.

In one sense that is true. We do not control another's behavior and have no power to make that person change-genuinely change. HOWEVER, that does not mean we are powerless. God says:Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, Ephesians 3:20 Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' Says the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places Ephesians 1:18-20

How do we access that power on behalf of ourselves and our loved ones? In many ways, we are in a battle for the hearts of our children, for the very lives of our loved ones. What weapons do we have in our arsenal? How can we be most effective in battle and see amazing victories won? My friends, we are not powerless, we are not without hope, and we are not helpless!! For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 -- Diane Hunt is the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries at America's KESWICK

UPCOMING EVENTDiane is one of the workshop speakers at our 3rd Annual Family and Friends Addiction Seminar: Binding Up the Broken Hearted. To learn more about Weapons of Warfare please join us for a day designed to provide practical help for individuals in relationship with an addicted person. It is our desire to give hope to the hopeless and to encourage the discouraged. Saturday, October 11th, 2008. 8:00 am -3:30 pm. Sponsored by America's Keswick - Addiction Recovery Ministries. It will be held at an off-campus location: Whiting Bible Church, 95 Lacey Rd, Whiting, NJ 08759. $25.00 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. For more information see our brochure at www.americaskeswick.org Call today for reservations and directions 732.350.1187 x. 10.

Friday, October 03, 2008

We live in a world rapidly spinning towards destruction. Scientists are spending their life-work studying the "big bang" theory (their effort to explain creation apart from THE CREATOR). I would venture to guess, they haven't seen anything yet. God promises to destroy the earth, as we know it. "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." 2 Peter 3:10

With frightening intensity, almost daily we hear of countries at war, earthquakes and hurricanes, economies toppling, accidents and terroristic threats. How can a person have personal inner peace in the midst of such chaos? Few do. Anxiety is one of the leading mental health and counseling issues in the United States. How can we, as Children of the Most High God, be different? How can we stand apart from this frantic world and be at peace? How can we have genuine peace, not artificial peace that the world finds in a bottle or pill, but genuine, deep, abiding peace? "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27

Genuine peace is not even possible apart from a saving faith in Jesus Christ. How can one have genuine peace who does not have peace with God or who does not have assurance of their eternal destination? Denial that God exists or of an afterlife doesn't resolve this issue in the heart and life of a non-believer. They will not have genuine peace. "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ..." Romans 5:1

Once a person has entered a personal saving faith relationship with Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit dwells within them and the fruit of His presence includes peace. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." Galatians 5:22-23Here's the bottom line: Our peace, genuine, abiding peace is only possible in relationship with Jesus. It is IN HIM that we have peace. As we possess Christ, we possess peace. "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace." John 16:33 "For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation" Ephesians 2:14Peace is a work of God in our life as we abide IN CHRIST and yield moment-by-moment to Him, allowing Him to live His life through us in faith. "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

May you know Christ today. May you know peace today. Diane Hunt is Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries at America's KESWICK

UPCOMING EVENT: Diane is one of the workshop speakers at our 3rd Annual Family and Friends Addiction Seminar: Binding Up the Broken Hearted. Please join Diane, Stephanie, MaryAnn, Bill P. and Jim F. for a day designed to provide practical help for individuals in relationship with an addicted person. It is our desire to give hope to the hopeless and to encourage the discouraged. Saturday, October 11th, 2008. 8:00 am -3:30 pm Sponsored by America's Keswick - Addiction Recovery Ministries. It will be held at an off-campus location: Whiting Bible Church, 95 Lacey Rd., Whiting, NJ 08759. $25.00 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. Call today for reservations and directions 732.350.1187 x. 10.

Thursday, October 02, 2008

See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. ~~Hebrews 12:15(NIV)1

Work at getting along with each other and with God. Otherwise you'll never get so much as a glimpse of God. Make sure no one gets left out of God's generosity. Keep a sharp eye out for weeds of bitter discontent. A thistle or two gone to seed can ruin a whole garden in no time. ~~Hebrews 12: 14-15 (The Message) 2

"The enemy of our souls has a very specific strategy to destroy relationships. Whether these relationships are in business, marriage, or friendships, the strategy is the same. A conflict arises, judgments are made, and feelings are hurt. What happens next is the defining point of whether the enemy gains a foothold, or the grace of God covers the wrong."3"

A conflict arises, JUDGEMENTS ARE MADE, and feelings are hurt." Dear sisters in the faith, this statement, which I repeated from the above quote can sum up a lot of the silliness and nonsense that occupies way, way, way too much of our collective energies and time.At least one time daily I say to myself, "Shut up girl...you aint all that!!!" I also find myself thinking -just as much- about others, "they think way too much of themselves."The point is plain and simple -does the enemy have a foothold in you as it relates to a critical and judgmental spirit? Does he?! If he does OR if it's simply the deeds of our sinful flesh, let's get serious about putting it too death and 1000%, refusing to hold on to a single shred of it.

How many gardens of potential beauty have been, and are being, ruined because so many of us have all but forgotten the grace by which we ourselves have been, and are, saved?May we this week go to our knees in prayer: CONFESS AND REPENT. Let's get out the pruning sheers, the weed wackers...the weed killing WORD OF GOD... and do whatever is necessary to cut back the thistles and weeds we have too long self-righteously cultivated. Selah...Selah...Selah............................. Stephanie Paul is Director of Women's Addiction Recovery Ministries at America's KESWICK

UPCOMING EVENTStephanie is one of the featured speakers at our 3rd Annual Family and Friends Addiction Seminar: Binding Up the Broken Hearted. Please join Diane, Stephanie, MaryAnn, Bill P. and Jim F. for a day designed to provide practical help for individuals in relationship with an addicted person. It is our desire to give hope to the hopeless and to encourage the discouraged. Saturday, October 11th, 2008. 8:00 am -3:30 pm Sponsored by America's Keswick - Addiction Recovery Ministries. It will be held at an off-campus location: Whiting Bible Church, 95 Lacey Rd., Whiting, NJ 08759. $25.00 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. Call today for reservations and directions 732.350.1187 x. 10

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

John 11:3-6 "Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, "Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick." When Jesus heard that, He said, "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it." Now JESUS LOVED Martha and her sister and Lazarus. SO, when He heard that he was sick, HE STAYED TWO MORE DAYS in the place where He was." (NKJV - Emphasis mine)

Being the Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy is a great blessing to me. I have to say I love speaking with the men and women who call the office. I share the love and hope of Christ to those who feel all hope is gone. Even so, my heart can get very heavy at times when there is great desperation to get a bed either "today" or as soon as possible. While I would love to get everyone one in "immediately," the pile of applications on my desk tells another story.

After a few days of desperate calls to the Intake Office and many men and families wanting to know just why there were no immediate beds, I was feeling a bit discouraged myself. Chaplain Jim Freed shared John 11 with me and pointed out a few words that I had certainly read many times but had never actually "heard" before.Jesus is some distance from His dear friends when he gets word that Lazarus is gravely ill. There is no mistaking the love that Jesus had for Mary, Martha and their brother Lazarus. The Scriptures make it very clear in verse five "Jesus loved" them. And without a doubt they loved Jesus and believed He could save Lazarus from imminent death.

But then there is a tiny two letter word that follows, "SO" then the words "He stayed." Wait a minute....He loved them so much that He lagged behind?? Jesus knew what was going to happen. He knew that Lazarus would go though agony and then experience death. He knew that Mary and Martha's hearts would be broken as they watched the suffering and death of their brother. He knew the feelings of helplessness they would go through. He knew the deep grief they would experience at Lazarus's death...yet Jesus stayed. Can we understand this kind of love? Can we accept this kind of love? Only if we have faith and believe that God is sovereign in every situation and His timing is perfect even when we can't understand it or perhaps even accept it.

Further in chapter 11 Jesus tells Martha in verse 40 "Didn't I tell you that you would see God's glory if you believe?" Jesus' heart was so deeply grieved at all that had transpired that He wept at the tomb of His friend.We may never know the reasons Gods answers may be delayed or not answered in the manner we want or expect. But one thing is for certain...He loves His sheep and no matter how He answers, if we believe, we too will see God's glory revealed when the Lord answers our prayers. Even in His divine timing for a bed at the Colony of Mercy. -- Mary Ann is the Intake Coordinator for the Colony of Mercy.

UPCOMING EVENT: Mary Ann is one of the featured speakers at our 3rd Annual Family and Friends Addiction Seminar: Binding Up the Broken Hearted. Please join Diane, Stephanie, MaryAnn, Bill P. and Jim F. for a day designed to provide practical help for individuals in relationship with an addicted person. It is our desire to give hope to the hopeless and to encourage the discouraged. Saturday, October 11th, 2008. 8:00 am -3:30 pm Sponsored by America's Keswick - Addiction Recovery Ministries. It will be held at an off-campus location: Whiting Bible Church, 95 Lacey Rd., Whiting, NJ 08759. $25.00 per person includes continental breakfast, lunch and materials. Call today for reservations and directions 732.350.1187 x. 10.

Diane is a the Director of Addiction Recovery Ministries & Acting Director of Development at America's KESWICK, an Addiction Recovery Center for men, and Christian Conference & Retreat Center now in it's 113th year. She is a Bible study instructor, support group leader, Biblical Counselor, Women’s conference and retreat speaker and author. Her writing and teaching is down-to-earth, thought provoking, practical and humorous. She is the compilation editor and primary author of a new women’s bible study: Crossing the Jordan: Living Victoriously in the Midst of Adversity.